The Community Associations Institute (CAI), an internationally recognized organization dedicated to building better communities, announced that Vicki Sears, AAM's Vice President of Customer Service, is a Central Arizona Chapter's 2015 recipient of their esteemed Rising Star Award.

The Rising Star Award is presented to committee members who have proven to be an asset to CAI through their volunteer efforts. Sears was awarded the Rising Star for her service this past year on CAI Central Arizona Chapter's Education Committee. This committee generates classes that showcase topics of specific relevance geared towards the betterment and ongoing training of Community Managers and Board members. CAI's Education Committee has hosted a myriad of classes including the Best Practices Series held this year, in which Sears was instrumental in creating and implementing.

"Our Best Practices Series had lay dormant for the past six years, however, with Vicki's help, we were able to offer the series once again for our members," said Kayte Comes, CAI Central Arizona Chapter's Executive Director. "Vicki's unwavering dedication to the Education Committee and overall involvement in our Chapter made her the perfect recipient of the Rising Star Award."

"What I love most about the community association management industry is that no two days are ever the same," stated Sears. "Every single day provides me with an opportunity to learn something new, which is why I am so honored to earn this award and serve on the Education Committee. Ongoing education is such an important element to this industry and I am thankful to be able to help not only Boards and Community Managers but homeowners as well."

Associated Asset Management (AAM) believes that ongoing education and training for their Community Managers and Board members is one of the main ingredients of successful community management. This exemplifies why AAM encourages homeowners to "expect more, demand more," from their community management partner by experiencing the AAM difference.

"Our allegiance to service extends beyond providing guidance to homeowner associations, it includes training every one of our employees, as well. Education is a primary focus at AAM, which is why we stay up-to-date on all the latest issues concerning association management," said Amanda Shaw, President of AAM.